Lola K. Breed

Lola (Harem) Breed, age 91 of Marshalltown, passed away on Sunday, October 26, 2025 at the Iowa River Hospice House.

Born Lola Kristine Harem on February 22, 1934 in Marshalltown, the daughter of Alfred and Edith (Gummert) Harem. She grew up on a farm southeast of Marshalltown, near Dillon. Lola went to a country school for eight years then went on to Ferguson High School, where she graduated as the valedictorian of the Class of 1951.

Lola continued her education at the University of Northern Iowa for one year before getting married. She was united in marriage with James E. Breed in 1953. As newlyweds, they lived in Oskaloosa while Jim attended William Penn University.

Lola and Jim returned home to Marshalltown, where she worked various jobs before they purchased Jim Breed’s Standard Station at Center and Olive Streets. Lola was the bookkeeper for 24 years. When the Breed’s closed the station, they opened the Muffler Connection for 14 years. After Jim’s passing, Lola stayed very active in Mid Iowa Antique Power Association, serving as treasurer for 20 years.

In her younger years, Lola enjoyed motorcycle rides with Jim and bowling with Randy. Lola and Randy bowled in the Iowa State Bowling Tournament, winning the mother – son doubles title. Lola had a passion for watching sports, basketball and football being her favorite. She was a diehard Iowa State Cyclone fan. Jim and Lola were a part of the Cyclone Booster Club for 20+ years and were season ticket holders for basketball and football. They sat at the 40-yard line at Jack Trice rain or shine for many years. Lola was a wonderful host, whether it was a tailgate or a holiday feast, she enjoyed providing for her friends and family.

In death she rejoined her husband, Jim; her son, Roger; her parents, Alfred and Edith Harem; and her brother, Donald (Jane) Harem. Left to cherish her memory are her son, Randy J. Breed and daughter-in-law, Janet of Marshalltown; along with several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Lola’s family would like to thank the caring staff of The Embers Retirement Community, where she lived since 2022 and the Iowa River Hospice House she entrusted to care for her in the last few days of her life.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Thursday, October 30, 2025 at Mitchell Family Funeral Home. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services. Burial will be in Rose Hill Memorial Gardens in Marshalltown following the services. Memorial donations may be directed to her son, Randy Breed, for a special donation to Iowa River Hospice House in Marshalltown.

Mitchell Family Funeral Home has been entrusted to care for Lola and her family. To leave online condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com. Ph. 641-844-1234.